Vitamin B12 Energy Boost

Fatigue.  Energy loss.  Memory impairment.  Weight loss difficulties.  These are just a few of the symptoms that affect individuals with B12 deficiency.  In fact, according to a National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, an estimated 3.2% of adults over age 50 have seriously low B12 levels.  Another 20% of adults suffer with borderline B12 deficiency.[5]  While vitamin B12 is found in a variety of foods, many of us fail to get the recommended daily allowance necessary for proper function.

Why We Need Vitamin B12

Water-soluble vitamin B12 is naturally present in fish, meat and dairy products.[4]  Containing cobalt, the body requires vitamin B12 for a variety of reasons.[4]  B12 is necessary for the formation of red blood cells, for proper neurological function, and for the synthesis of DNA.  It is also required for the formation of RNA (Ribonucleic acid, a major macromolecule that makes protein),[6] for hormone production, protein production, for the synthesis of hemoglobin, and for fat and protein metabolism.  Without enough vitamin B12, the body suffers a host of different symptoms.

These include:

• Loss of taste
• Loss of smell
• Strange sensations
• Numbness/tingling in the hands, legs, or feet
• Difficulty walking
• Loss of balance
• Anemia
• Swelling/inflammation in the tongue
• Jaundice
• Cognitive difficulties
• Weakness
• Fatigue
• Severe depression
• Paranoia
• Delusional thinking
• Loss of memory
• Incontinence[2][5]

Where does vitamin B12 come from?

The body itself cannot manufacture Vitamin B12.  Instead, it must be provided through diet or vitamin B12 supplements.  Foods that naturally contain B12 include meat, eggs, dairy products, (and in smaller quantities) leafy green vegetables, beans, and peas.[1]

How do individuals become B12 deficient?

On average, an adult should get approximately 2.4 micrograms of vitamin B12 per day.  Some individuals are at risk for B12 deficiency, however.[4]  

Strict vegetarians and vegans—Those who’ve adopted a strict diet, free of animal products and animal byproducts may become deficient in vitamin B12.  Because plants do not produce this element, nutritional deficiency may occur without supplements or fortified grains.

Weight-loss surgery—Individuals who’ve had weight-loss surgery may be deficient in vitamin B12 because the body may no longer efficiently extract vitamins from food.

Celiac or Crohn’s Disease—These medical conditions affect the body’s ability to absorb nutrients.

Prescription medication—Certain commonly prescribed drugs for heartburn that decrease the production of acid reduce the body’s ability to absorb vitamin B12.

Age—Elderly individuals are deficient.  As we age, acid production in the stomach decreases.  This impacts B12 absorption since acid is needed for efficient absorption.[2]

Individuals with pernicious anemia— Individuals with this condition lack intrinsic factor, which facilitates proper B12 absorption through the gastrointestinal track.

Vitamin B12 Deficiency—Prevention and Treatment  

A physician or other healthcare practitioner can diagnose a vitamin B12 deficiency with a blood test and physical examination.  

Prevention is key in vitamin B12 deficiency.  For individuals who do not eat animal products, it is important to consume grains, breads, and cereals fortified with vitamin B12.  For minor B12 deficiency, supplementing the diet with a daily multivitamin containing B12 may suffice as well.  Serious B12 deficiency may require a more concentrated vitamin supplement or regular injections.[3]

The Benefits of Vitamin B12 Injections

Energy Support

Vitamin B12 feeds the cells, gives the body energy, and promotes healthy brain function.  Some medical conditions including, food-cobalamin malabsorption disorder do not allow the release of vitamin B12 from food, or its binding proteins.

Heart Health

Vitamin B12 removes damaging homocysteine protein from the blood.  This protects arteries, and prevents inflammation and heart disease.  

Bone Strength

High levels of homocysteine are found in individuals with osteoporosis. These individuals often have low levels of vitamin B12 as well.  

Nerve Protection

Myelin sheaths that protect nerves from damage are replenished through vitamin B12.

Mood Support

Vitamin B12 aids in the synthesis of the neurotransmitter, serotonin that regulates mood.  Higher levels of serotonin are associated with positive feelings.  B12 deficiency has been known to manifest psychiatric symptoms such as OCD, and depression.

Brain Health

Patients with Alzheimer’s disease have lower levels of vitamin B12.  Individuals with a cobalamin deficiency may suffer from nutrition-related dementia.

DNA Support

As toxins, free radicals, omega-6 fats and high blood sugar circulate in the body, cells age more quickly and DNA no longer replicates properly.

While some of us do get the recommended daily allowance of vitamin B12 from diet alone, many of us do not.  What’s more, serious effects from B12 deficiency can occur gradually over time and go undetected.  These can cause irreversible damage in the body if not treated immediately.  Getting the necessary supplemental support to correct nutritional deficits is critical for optimal function and overall health and wellness.